In-Class Brushing...Making it Work
Brushing in class is important-and it's always a challenge to keep this daily routine interesting for children. The following are some teacher-recommended ideas for making tooth brushing time run smoothly:
- Try setting up an on-going system where children brush when they finish eating. Have only a small number of children brushing at one time (maximum of two per sink). Plan an informal activity to avoid having children wait in line to brush (like a song, a discussion about the meal they just finished, or a clean-up activity.) When children finish brushing, move them on to other activities! Don't forget to use names and/or symbols on toothbrushes, as preschoolers can often recognize their names at this age.
- Use disposable cups and place pea-sized amounts of fluoride toothpaste just inside the lip of the cup; each child will take his/her own cup and scoop up the toothpaste. The cups are then used to rinse at the sink, but can also be used for at-desk brushing.
- In-class brushing is a great exercise in self-esteem. The children learn that they can do it, and they feel great!
Good Oral Health-It's Never Too Early!It's true! Unhealthy teeth can cause low self-esteem, poor speech, developmental difficulties, and even pain. Thousands of days of school are missed each year due to oral health problems. That translates into work days (and income) missed by parents and caregivers. But adults can make a difference in children's oral health by following some of the suggestions listed on this page and throughout this Bulletin. Many of the suggestions are from Colgate-Palmolive through their Bright Smiles, Bright Futures oral health education materials, and some are from Head Start teachers and directors who contributed their ideas and helpful hints for good oral health practices for this Bulletin. All contributions are greatly appreciated!